Departure Dates

Embark on this epic 20-day expedition which offers a multitude of rare experiences in wild, interesting places. Explore an ancient seaport and a traditional tea plantation in Sri Lanka. Visit the orangutan infant care center at Camp Leakey in Borneo, go on game drives in search of endangered elephants or leopards, snorkel and dive the productive, wild waters where the Andaman Sea meets the Indian Ocean, and enjoy a day of curated exploration in glittering Singapore.

Day 1

Arrive in Colombo, Sri Lanka

Arrive in Sri Lanka's capital and transfer to your hotel for the evening.

Day 2

Embark in Colombo

Check out of your hotel and join a tour of the city before embarking the National Geographic Orion.

Day 3

Galle, Sri Lanka

Pass under the ramparts of the Galle Fort, situated just at the entrance to the harbor, making for an impressive and photogenic approach. Today you have the option to either visit a tea plantation, for which Sri Lanka (formerly Ceylon) is famous, or take a wildlife river safari, and tour the historic city of Galle. (B,L,D)

Day 4

Hambantota, Sri Lanka

Today is sure to be a highlight, as your ship sets out to explore southern Sri Lanka’s incredible national parks. Bring your cameras and binoculars, as you spend the day on game drives, in search of wildlife, including Sri Lankan leopards, elephants, and prolific birdlife. (B,L,D)

Days 5-6

At Sea

Spend your days cruising the open ocean relaxing on board, taking advantage of your ship's amenities, or on deck keeping watch for marine and birdlife. (B,L,D)

Days 7-8

Andaman Islands

Situated at the southeastern edge of the Bay of Bengal, the Andaman Islands are known, in part, for their history as a British penal colony. Long isolated from foreign visitation, the Andamans hold a strong appeal for the modern expedition traveler. Tour the capital city of Port Blair, then head to one of the outer islands for a day of exploring, both above and below the water. (B,L,D)

Day 9

At Sea

Enjoy the open ocean while you sail to your next destination. (B,L,D)

Day 10

Sabang, Pulau Weh, Indonesia

This morning arrive at Pulau Weh, the westernmost island in the Indonesian archipelago. Spend the morning exploring this relaxed and friendly island, including a walk among the steaming fumaroles of the Geothermal-Volcanic Valley and a visit to the quiet city of Sabang. Located where the Andaman Sea meets the Indian Ocean, Weh offers unparalleled opportunities for underwater exploration as well. Spend the afternoon snorkeling and diving one of the island’s many reefs. (B,L,D)

Day 11

At Sea

If you haven't had the chance yet, today is a good day to take advantage of the ship's amenities, or maybe crack that book and relax on deck. (B,L,D)

Day 12

Medan, North Sumatra, Indonesia

This busy port and capital of North Sumatra offer access to the remote hinterlands of Sumatra. Choose a full day excursion, either to the orangutan sanctuary at Bukit Lawang National Park, or to the highlands near Berastagi for a cultural exchange with the local Batak Karo tribespeople. (B,L,D)

Day 13

At Sea

Today, continue to take in the fresh sea air as your ship cruises towards Singapore. (B,L,D)

Day 14

Singapore

No passage through this region would be complete without a visit to the incomparable city-state of Singapore. Spend the day exploring this bustling metropolis, with stops in Chinatown, the impressive National Orchid Garden at the Singapore Botanic Garden and a bumboat ride along the Singapore River. (B,L,D)

Days 15-16

At Sea

Spend these last days at sea reflecting on your adventures thus far and resting up for the final leg of your journey. (B,L,D)

Days 17-18

Tanjung Puting National Park, Kalimantan

Set on a peninsula jutting out from the southern edge of Kalimantan, Tanjung Puting National Park is a trove of rare species and diverse habitats. While the park is home to some 220 bird species and numerous monkey species, its most famous residents are the endangered orangutans. Board local boats for a full-day excursion into the forest, gliding on narrow channels on the lookout for hornbills, crocodiles, and perhaps the unusual proboscis monkey. (B,L,D)

Days 19-20

At Sea / Disembark in Denpasar, Bali

Cross the Java Sea to the lovely Indonesian island of Bali. Disembark the following morning and transfer to the airport for your flight home. (Day 19: B,L,D; Day 20: B)